Mayor Kirk Watson, City Of Austin | City Of Austin website
Mayor Kirk Watson, City Of Austin | City Of Austin website
The City of Austin's Economic Development Department and Capital Delivery Services Department are collaborating with renowned Tejano artists Fidencio Duran and Angel Quesada to lead community engagement panels for the Art in Public Places project with the Mexic-Arte Museum. The initiative aims to capture local history and community values, inspiring, educating, and engaging the public.
Speaking about the importance of community engagement in preserving cultural heritage, Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, Director of the Economic Development Department, stated, "The City of Austin recognizes the importance of community engagement in preserving our cultural heritage." She emphasized the goal of empowering local communities to actively participate in shaping the cultural landscape of the city.
Two community engagement events are scheduled for March 24 and April 13, offering the local community a platform to share design ideas to enhance the historic Mexic-Arte Museum.
The first event, "Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of the Mexican American Community in Downtown Austin: A Celebration of History, Art, and Community," will celebrate Downtown Austin's Mexican American history and contemporary art while showcasing community contributions and challenges.
The second event, "Exploring Mural Art and Community Experiences: Native American, Latino, and Mexican American Cultural History in Texas and the Southwest," will delve into Native American, Latino, and Chicano history, art, and culture in Austin and the Southwest, focusing on community murals as valuable resources for artists.
Renowned Tejano artists Fidencio Duran and Angel Quesada, deeply rooted in Austin's cultural scene, bring their wealth of artistic and community experience to the Art in Public Places project with the Mexic-Arte Museum. Duran, known for his rich narrative style and dedication to Mexican American experiences, serves as a mentor and educator. Quesada's transformative art and community initiatives reflect a profound commitment to public welfare. Their involvement underscores the project's aim to inspire, educate, and engage the public in preserving Austin's cultural heritage.
For more information about the Economic Development Department’s Art in Public Places Program, visit www.austintexas.gov/aipp.